On October 23, Ukrainian teams Dynamo and Shakhtar will play their next matches in the main round of the Conference League. Former national team player of Ukraine Taras Kabanov shared his expectations from the performances of the Dynamo and the «miners» on the international stage:
Taras Kabanov— Considering the recent failures of these teams in the UPL, one might say that they would be eager to rehabilitate themselves in front of the fans in the Conference League. However, I will not do this because I am not privy to what priority Dynamo and Shakhtar place on European matches.
Nevertheless, I am convinced that they have not forgotten that next week they have head-to-head battles first in the draw of the Ukrainian Cup, and then in the championship. Moreover, Kyiv still has to play with the UPL leader — Kryvbas — on Sunday. Their strength is not limitless, and Kyiv and Donetsk cannot currently boast of a long bench.
— Especially since the Dynamo players went to the match with the Turkish Samsunspor not in full strength.
— Of course, this is concerning, although I am more worried about some not entirely clear atmosphere in the team. In my opinion, Kyiv often lacks cohesion precisely because of problems with microclimate. But that’s my point of view.
— So, should Samsunspor be considered the favorite?
— No, I think the opponents' chances are equal. Still, this team is a mid-tier team in the Turkish championship. And the absence of several leading players can serve as an additional incentive for Dynamo players to play beyond their capacity and demonstrate their best qualities. That’s why my prediction is 1:1.
— Unlike the Kyiv players, Shakhtar players, regardless of how they perform in the championship, always maintain their dignity on the international stage. Will it be the same in the match in Krakow with the Polish Legia?
— You know, lately, there is a feeling that Shakhtar in the championship and in European competitions are different teams. Completely different motivation, concentration. It is clear that the «miners» legionnaires truly understand that the shortest way to be noticed by the scouts of renowned clubs is to «shoot out» in European competitions. And although the Conference League is not highly rated — still. The main thing is that they do not need to be pushed.
That’s why, in the confrontation with Legia, I give preference to Shakhtar. Moreover, Legia is currently experiencing a crisis, performing poorly in the Ekstraklasa, several key players are injured, and this needs to be taken advantage of.
— And the fact that this match will take place in Poland, can’t it be an obstacle?
— I don’t think so. I am aware that Legia will be provided with the support of the 12th player, who will be cheering very actively, but I am confident that thanks to a more balanced lineup and higher technical preparation, the «miners» will triumph — 2:0.
Andriy Pysarenko
